Prince Andrew made a surprise appearance at the funeral of the Duchess of Kent, marking a rare occurrence. He was spotted arriving at Westminster Cathedral in London today, accompanied by Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York. Onlookers were taken aback as the duo swiftly entered the cathedral. Meanwhile, key members of the Royal Family, including King Charles III and the Prince and Princess of Wales, were assembling for the service. Unfortunately, Queen Camilla had to withdraw from the event due to illness.
Before the funeral, Andrew and Fergie were seen departing from their residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor under police escort. Upon their arrival at the cathedral, Andrew was warmly greeted by four clergy members waiting outside. His public duties were significantly impacted by his association with American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, leading to the curtailing of his public engagements.
Shortly after Andrew’s arrival, Prince Michael of Kent, the Duke of Kent’s brother, arrived looking frail and using a cane for support as he entered the church for the funeral mass. He was accompanied by Princess Michael of Kent, also relying on a cane, along with their daughter Lady Gabriella Windsor. The royal family, dressed in somber black attire to pay their respects, included Lord Frederick Windsor and Lady Sophie Windsor, with some arriving together by minibus.
The Duchess, who was married to a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II, will be laid to rest later today. This occasion marks the first Catholic funeral for a member of the Royal Family in recent history. The private service will include a message from Pope Leo.
Buckingham Palace had previously announced the peaceful passing of the duchess at her Kensington Palace residence on September 4, surrounded by her loved ones. In a heartfelt statement, the Palace expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting the Duchess’s lifelong dedication to various organizations, her love for music, and her compassion for young people.
